The Ottawa Public Library has a new brand. The old one was a familiar friend. It didn’t take me long to decide I like the change.

The rebranding reminds us that public libraries are the quintessential third place, sanctuaries where presence alone is enough. Unlike cafes that expect purchases or malls designed to encourage spending, libraries welcome everyone through their doors. There’s no economic barrier; most of the funding comes from property taxes already paid.

There’s so much to enjoy. Public libraries offer free access in-branch to major databases such as Ancestry.ca and serve as FamilySearch affiliates. Other commercial resources may be available free online. Collections of local historical records, city directories, old newspapers on microfilm, and regional history books that may be out of print or unavailable elsewhere are likely available at a central library. Interlibrary loan systems allow access to materials from across the country.

Do you take advantage?